The Nutcracker

We are set to experience one of the most enduring traditions in the ballet repertoire, featuring a score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky that has become synonymous with the winter season. The choreography is a collaborative legacy involving Peter Wright and Lev Ivanov, alongside Vincent Redmon. You will hear the Royal Ballet Sinfonia perform a sequence of movements that shift from the intimate domesticity of a family gathering to a fantastical dreamscape. Listen for the distinct, crystalline timbre of the celesta during the Sugar Plum Fairy’s sequence, and the lush, expansive orchestration that accompanies the transformation of the stage. The evening follows a clear narrative arc where the familiar melodies guide you through the journey of a young girl. You should watch for the seamless transitions between the character dances, which provide a rhythmic and tonal variety that keeps the energy high throughout the two acts.

Birmingham Royal Ballet is a leading force in British dance, celebrated for maintaining a large-scale classical repertoire while being firmly rooted in the Midlands. The company is joined by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, an orchestra renowned for its specific expertise in providing live accompaniment for the stage. For this performance, Rosanna Ely takes on the central role of Clara. The ensemble is known for its technical precision and its ability to deliver large, atmospheric productions that fill the expansive stage of their home venue with detailed movement and coordinated ensemble work.

This performance takes place at the Birmingham Hippodrome, a venue well-suited to large-scale ballet productions. With a running time of approximately 130 minutes, the evening is substantial but well-paced for those new to the art form. The production is a traditional ballet, so there is no spoken dialogue to follow. While there is no formal dress code, many attendees choose to dress smartly for an evening at the theatre. You should allow sufficient time to be seated before the Royal Ballet Sinfonia begins the overture, as late entry may be restricted.